Candidal Endocarditis: Symptoms, Diagnosis, and Treatment
Candidal endocarditis is a serious infection that affects the heart's inner lining. It is caused by a type of fungus called Candida, which normally lives in the human body but can cause infections in certain circumstances.
The symptoms of candidal endocarditis can be similar to those of other types of endocarditis, such as fever, chills, fatigue, and shortness of breath. However, candidal endocarditis can also cause more specific symptoms, such as skin lesions, abdominal pain, and eye problems.
Diagnosing candidal endocarditis can be challenging, as it requires a combination of clinical examination, blood tests, imaging studies, and sometimes a biopsy of the heart tissue. The diagnosis is usually confirmed by finding Candida in the blood or heart tissue samples.
Treatment of candidal endocarditis involves a combination of antifungal medications and surgical intervention. The antifungal medications may need to be given for several weeks or even months, depending on the severity of the infection.
- Antifungal medications: The mainstay of treatment for candidal endocarditis is antifungal medications, such as amphotericin B, fluconazole, or echinocandins. These medications are given intravenously and may need to be continued for several weeks or months, depending on the response to treatment.
- Surgical intervention: In some cases, surgical intervention may be necessary to remove the infected heart valve or to drain abscesses around the heart. This is usually done in combination with antifungal therapy.
Preventing candidal endocarditis can be challenging, as it often occurs in people with weakened immune systems or other underlying medical conditions. However, taking steps to reduce the risk of infection, such as maintaining good hygiene and avoiding unnecessary medical procedures, can help reduce the risk of developing candidal endocarditis.
In conclusion, candidal endocarditis is a serious infection that requires prompt diagnosis and treatment. If you are experiencing symptoms of endocarditis, such as fever, chills, or shortness of breath, it is important to seek medical attention right away to determine the cause and receive appropriate treatment.